Police Guard Cane Farms Despite Criticism

Police Commissioner Rusiate Tudravu has defended the Fiji Police Force's involvement in cane cutting operations, stating that criticism will not deter their efforts. He acknowledged that policing measures are easy targets for negativity but stressed that such attitudes will not hinder their work.

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It is easy to criticize and mock officers and policing measures, but negativity will not hold them back.

Tudravu is encouraging Divisional Police Commanders to implement strategies tailored to their specific operational needs and local conditions. The primary goal is to combat the persistent issue of burnt cane and maintain police visibility in known "red spot" areas where burning is prevalent. He emphasized that the methods employed, whether caravan patrols, horse patrols, or quick response teams, should be supported by the community for the benefit of farmers reliant on the sugar industry.

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Whether the Divisional Police Commanders opt to deploy officers in a caravan, by horse patrol, or quick response teams, we should be supportive of the operations for the sake of the farmers who depend on the sugar industry for their livelihoods.

Recognizing that law enforcement actions can become politicized, Tudravu appealed to political parties and communities to cooperate. He urged them to work together to ensure harvesting operations face minimal disruptions. The Commissioner highlighted that the police have received positive feedback from farmers and will continue to adjust their deployment strategies based on evolving operational demands.

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for the greater good of the cane farming community, he urges political parties and communities to work together to ensure minimal disruptions to harvesting.

Cane farm burnings remain a significant concern during the harvesting season. Tudravu reiterated the importance of public vigilance and encouraged citizens to report any suspicious activities to the authorities by calling 1681. The police remain committed to supporting the agricultural sector and ensuring the safety and security of the cane farming community.

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The Commissioner stresses they have received positive responses from farmers and will reassess deployment in accordance with operational demands.